Can Babies Get a Fever From Teething?
Clarify common concerns about teething and fever in babies. Understand true fever causes and essential guidance for your baby's health.
Many parents wonder if teething can cause a fever in babies. This article clarifies the relationship between teething and fever, helping parents understand their baby’s symptoms.
Understanding Teething Symptoms
Medical consensus indicates that teething typically does not cause a true fever. While some babies might experience a slight elevation in body temperature, this is not considered a fever and is generally insignificant. If a baby’s temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it is more likely due to an underlying illness than teething itself.
Common and mild teething symptoms include increased drooling, sometimes leading to a rash around the mouth and chin. Babies may also exhibit fussiness, irritability, and a greater desire to chew on objects to relieve gum pressure. Other signs are swollen or tender gums, changes in sleep patterns, or a slight decrease in appetite.
What is a Fever in Babies
A fever in infants is medically defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Accurate temperature measurement is important for infants, especially those under three months old. For the most reliable reading, a digital rectal thermometer is recommended. To take a rectal temperature, gently insert the tip about 0.5 to 1 inch into the baby’s rectum. While temporal artery (forehead) thermometers are also accurate, rectal readings are preferred for precision in young infants.
Other Reasons for a Baby’s Fever
A fever in babies is most often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are common causes. Bacterial infections, including ear infections or urinary tract infections, can also lead to a fever.
Sometimes, a mild fever can occur as a reaction to childhood immunizations, typically resolving within a day. Overheating from being overdressed or in a hot environment can also cause a temporary rise in a baby’s temperature. If a baby has a fever, consider these more common causes rather than attributing it solely to teething.
When to Contact a Doctor
Contact a doctor immediately if a baby younger than three months old has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. For babies three months or older, contact a doctor if the fever exceeds 102.2°F (39°C) or persists for more than 2-3 days.
Additionally, seek medical advice if the fever is accompanied by concerning symptoms, regardless of the baby’s age. These symptoms include extreme fussiness or drowsiness, difficulty breathing, an unexplained rash, or persistent vomiting or diarrhea. Signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers or no tears when crying, also require medical attention.